Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Breast Pathology

Abstract

Context.—Increasing implementation of whole slide imaging together with digital workflow and advances in computing capacity enable the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in pathology, including breast pathology. Breast pathologists often face a significant workload, with diagnosis complexity, tedious repetitive tasks, and semiquantitative evaluation of biomarkers. Recent advances in developing AI algorithms have provided promising approaches to meet the demand in breast pathology.Objective.—To provide an updated review of AI in breast pathology. We examined the success and challenges of current and potential AI applications in diagnosing and grading breast carcinomas and other pathologic changes, detecting lymph node metastasis, quantifying breast cancer biomarkers, predicting prognosis and therapy response, and predicting potential molecular changes.Data Sources.—We obtained data and information by searching and reviewing literature on AI in breast pathology from PubMed and based our own experience.Conclusions.—With the increasing application in breast pathology, AI not only assists in pathology diagnosis to improve accuracy and reduce pathologists’ workload, but also provides new information in predicting prognosis and therapy response.